Washington: When the US and Israel launched a joint attack on Iran on February 28, the initial projection was a short-lived conflict lasting four to six weeks. However, the war persists five months and 21 days later, despite several ceasefire attempts.
According to TRTworld.com, Iran swiftly retaliated to the US-Israeli assault, which resulted in the death of Iran's long-standing supreme leader, Ali Khamenei, and several top officials, as well as civilian casualties. Iran's response included asserting its presence in the Strait of Hormuz and launching missile and drone strikes across the Gulf, affecting global stability.
As the conflict continued, Washington repeatedly adjusted its timeframe, initially stating it was "ahead of schedule" before suggesting the war might last an additional two to three weeks or "as long as necessary." Despite the ongoing low-intensity conflict, the US military has suffered around 18 confirmed deaths and 600-900 personnel wounded, along with significant equipment losses. The estimated cost of Operation Epic Fury is projected to reach $37.5 billion by September 2026.
Iran's attacks have caused damage to US bases and assets in the region, prompting a reassessment of the US military presence. According to The Washington Post, Pentagon officials are considering a potential reshaping of the US footprint in the Middle East. The report, citing eight people familiar with the matter, noted that the Defense Department is evaluating whether to withdraw troops from the Gulf, where US bases have faced sustained Iranian strikes.
The review, led by the Pentagon's policy office with input from the Joint Staff and US Central Command, is seen as "prudent planning" rather than a formal review. A senior Pentagon official stated that Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth has not ordered a formal assessment but is focused on guiding decisions about rebuilding damaged bases.
US Central Command maintains approximately 40,000 troops at nearly 20 sites across the region. Since the conflict's escalation, Washington has increased its military presence, deploying additional warships, fighter aircraft, and air defense systems, while conducting over 13,000 attacks on Iran. The largest US bases in the region are located in the Gulf, including facilities in Bahrain and Kuwait.
Despite a memorandum of understanding signed in June to end hostilities, negotiations have stalled amid disputes over navigation through the Strait of Hormuz. The situation is expected to intensify debates within the US administration regarding military interventions versus refocusing on defending the homeland or deterring more powerful adversaries like China.
The discussions have involved Admiral Bradley Cooper, head of US Central Command, who supports considering a westward troop redeployment from the Gulf. Michael Ratney, a former US envoy, suggested that repositioning troops westward could alleviate pressure, although he acknowledged that it may not be a perfect solution.
